South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT said on March 24 it will invite applications for the 'GovTech startup AI pilot and commercialisation support programme'.

GovTech refers to services that introduce advanced digital technologies such as AI and big data into the public sector to upgrade services for the public, address regional and social problems and innovate public infrastructure.

Eligible applicants are consortia between GovTech companies founded within 7 years and demand agencies such as central government bodies, local governments and public institutions. The ministry will support about 18 projects with a total of 3.24 billion won. This year it will focus on securing public-sector references and strengthening capabilities to enter global markets. It will also provide tailored programmes by development stage, including market entry, investment attraction, revenue generation and overseas expansion.

The programme, launched in 2024, produced results including consecutive CES Innovation Award winners over 2 years and reaching 9 billion won in cumulative funds raised.

Choi Dong-won (최동원), director general for AI Infrastructure Policy at the ministry, said he hopes the programme will give startups a chance to secure public-sector references and serve as a catalyst for South Korea's public-sector AI leap.